Severino was very good in his limited 2016 action, batting .321/.441/.607 in 34 plate appearances over 16 games, while also hitting two home runs and knocking in four RBI. It may be unreasonable to expect that for a full season, however, as his best minor league average since entering pro ball in 2011 was .271, which he hit in 2016 for Triple-A Syracuse over 317 plate appearances. He doesn't walk much, but he also doesn't strike out much, walking just 6.0 percent of the time with Syracuse and striking out 14.2 percent of the time. The 23-year-old seemed to have an excellent shot at being on the Opening Day roster before the team went out and acquired Derek Norris. He is now left to compete with Jose Lobaton for the backup catcher's job in spring training. If Norris' 155 wRC+ from 2016 is a trend and not a blip, however, there could be a shakeup behind the plate for the 2016 NL East champions, opening the door for Severino.

2016

Severino made his major league debut in September, and while the 22-year-old didn't see much action, he's clearly positioned to be the Nationals' next backup at catcher. His offensive numbers in his first look at Double-A were unimpressive, and he could stand to shorten a long swing from the right side, but Severino's defense behind the plate has always been his calling card. He's got a great arm and quick release, throwing out 38 percent of attempted base stealers last season for Harrisburg. He also has the athleticism to block pitches in the dirt, and has even shown a knack for framing pitches in his young professional career. Jose Lobaton won't be eligible for free agency until 2018, so Severino will have plenty of time to continue honing his skills in the high minors, but once the front office feels he's ready, expect him to become a fixture on the Nats bench.